Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars combine the soft, chewy texture of sugar cookies with the creamy richness of cheesecake. These bars are an irresistible dessert that blends two classic treats into one delicious bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home.
- Customizable: Easily add flavors or toppings to suit your taste.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and store for later.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Sugar cookie dough (store-bought or homemade)
- Cream cheese, softened
- Granulated sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Eggs
- Powdered sugar (optional, for topping)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Form the Crust: Press half of the sugar cookie dough into the bottom of the dish to form an even layer.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cookie dough layer. Crumble the remaining dough on top.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Cool & Chill: Let the bars cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- Serve: Slice into squares and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling.
- Fruit Swirl: Swirl in raspberry or strawberry jam before baking.
- Spiced Option: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free sugar cookie dough.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Reheat: Enjoy chilled or let sit at room temperature for a few minutes.
FAQs
How do I know when the bars are done?
The top should be golden, and the center should no longer jiggle.
Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough?
Yes! Homemade dough works perfectly in this recipe.
What size baking dish should I use?
An 8×8 or 9×9-inch dish works well for thick, even bars.
Can I make these bars in advance?
Absolutely! They taste even better the next day after chilling.
What can I use instead of vanilla extract?
Try almond or lemon extract for a different flavor.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Lining with parchment paper is best, but you can lightly grease it if preferred.
Can I add a crust layer?
Yes, you can add a graham cracker crust for extra texture.
Why did my cheesecake layer crack?
Overbaking or sudden temperature changes can cause cracks. Cooling slowly helps prevent this.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
You can, but full-fat cream cheese provides the creamiest texture.
Are these bars freezer-friendly?
Yes, they freeze well for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars are a delightful blend of chewy cookie goodness and creamy cheesecake. They’re easy to make, perfect for sharing, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re prepping dessert for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these bars are sure to be a hit. Enjoy every sweet, indulgent bite!
Print
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes (plus cooling time)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Bars combine the classic flavors of sugar cookies and creamy cheesecake into a delightful dessert. This recipe features a buttery Golden Oreo crust, a rich cheesecake layer, and a topping of sugar cookie dough, all finished with colorful sprinkles.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 24 Golden Oreo cookies
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the topping:
- 1 package (16.5 oz) prepared sugar cookie dough
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
-
Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 11×7-inch baking pan and set aside. Crush the Golden Oreo cookies into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
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Make the cheesecake layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated. Spread this mixture over the prepared crust.
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Add the cookie dough topping: Break the sugar cookie dough into small pieces, flatten them slightly, and arrange them over the cheesecake layer, covering as much surface as possible.
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Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden.
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Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. For best results, refrigerate for 2-3 hours before slicing. Add sprinkles on top before serving, if desired.
Notes
- For easier removal, line the baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
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